Real Madrid and its fans received a shocking blow with the confirmation that their star player and top scorer, Kylian Mbappé, will miss the crucial Champions League Round of 16 second leg against Benfica on Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabéu. This absence comes at a critical juncture in the season, presenting a significant challenge for the Spanish giants as they look to maintain their lead and secure passage to the quarterfinals.
Details of the injury and its impact
According to reliable sources close to the club, as reported by AFP and the French newspaper L'Équipe, Mbappé has suffered a tear in the lateral collateral ligament of his left knee. Although the player had been playing through the pain for several weeks, continuing to participate in matches, the worsening of the injury forced the medical and coaching staff to decide to rest him to avoid further complications that could sideline him for an extended period. Mbappé's struggles were evident in the recent La Liga match against Osasuna, which Real Madrid lost 1-2, where he appeared unable to move freely, affecting his performance and the team's overall performance.
General context and importance of Mbappe to the royal project
Mbappé's absence represents a significant blow to Real Madrid's European ambitions. Since his record-breaking transfer, the French striker has become the cornerstone of the team's attack, scoring 13 goals in the Champions League this season, topping the competition's scoring charts, in addition to leading the La Liga scoring charts. His blistering pace and clinical finishing have made him Álvaro Arbeloa's most dangerous weapon, and his absence will leave a gaping void that will be difficult to fill.
Expected impact and upcoming challenges
Despite Real Madrid's 1-0 victory in the first leg in Lisbon, the absence of their top scorer makes the return leg more difficult. Other players, such as Brazilian Vinicius Junior, who was at the center of controversy in the first leg due to racist abuse, will have to shoulder more responsibility in leading the attack. Coach Arbeloa stated that he expects Vinicius to perform at his best in the second leg at home in front of their fans. This situation presents the Royal Club with a real challenge to demonstrate their character and ability to cope with the absence of their star player at a crucial juncture in their quest for their favorite European title.
